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Underwriting Specialist, Middle Market – Ottawa Region (Job ID: )

The Opportunity

Zurich Canada, a leading insurance provider, is looking for an Underwriting Specialist to drive profitable growth and deliver innovative risk solutions in the Canadian commercial insurance market. This role supports Zurich’s values and business goals through analysis, underwriting of new and renewal business, proactive engagement with key brokers and customers, and expert solutions on complex accounts.

Work from home

As Zurich Canada does not currently have an office in the Ottawa region, this role will be remote. If an office is established in the future, the position will transition to a hybrid work model, requiring three days per week of in‑person presence.

What You Will Do

- Seek out and secure renewal and new account opportunities.
- Assess opportunities with distributors and identify growth potential.
- Qualify accounts against Zurich’s appetite, balancing business potential.
- Conduct purposeful agent/broker/customer meetings and onsite calls.
- Negotiate terms and conditions to close deals.
- Cross‑sell other lines to increase account product density.
- Participate in Sales Team meetings and collaborate on assigned territories.
- Maintain accurate records of broker/client visits and account status.
- Develop strong broker and client networks within underwritten industries.
- Calculate target prices using underwriting tools, measure exposure, and analyze risk.
- Initiate product development ideas and support training for staff.
- Provide expertise on coverage issues with claims and underwriting guidelines.
- Lead marketing presentations for new and existing agents/brokers.
- Promote Zurich’s products and services to increase agency penetration.




- Manage projects and provide recommendations for innovative solutions.
- Research and analyze data, trends, and best practices to support operational decisions.
- Apply rating tools and methodologies to deliver tailored customer solutions.
- Advise senior management on coverage and ensure accurate premium calculations.

Required Qualifications

- High School Diploma or Equivalent with 5 or more years of experience in Underwriting or Market Facing area.
- High School Diploma or Equivalent with 10 or more years of experience in Claims or Underwriting Support area.
- Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice with an Associate Degree and 3 or more years of experience in Underwriting Market Facing area.
- Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice with an Associate Degree and 8 or more years of experience in Claims or Underwriting Support area.
- Knowledge of Microsoft Office.
- Experience working on time restraints for quotes on new and renewal business.
- Experience working in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

- Bachelor’s degree.
- Advanced knowledge of underwriting philosophy, techniques, regulations, and guidelines.
- Strong negotiation, communication, relationship‑building, and presentation skills.
- Ability to assess risk, deliver solutions, and function effectively in a team environment.
- Demonstrated technical expertise and problem‑solving abilities.




- Industry‑specific expertise in commercial lines underwriting.
- Microsoft Office experience.

At Zurich Canada, we are committed to pay equity. Compensation is based on objective criteria such as skills, experience, and internal equity. The salary range for this position is $100,000–$150,000. Start salaries may exceed this range based on the candidate’s skills and experience.

Our Culture

- We celebrate diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DIEB). Employees are encouraged to bring their whole selves to work.
- The culture values collaboration and diverse perspectives.
- We provide a comprehensive health/benefits plan, a competitive compensation package, four weeks of vacation, four personal days per year, and access to training and development.
- We are committed to continuous improvement and giving back to our communities.
- We have been recognized as a Top Employer in Greater Toronto and winner of Insurance Business Canada’s 5‑Star Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award.

About Us

Zurich Canada is part of the Zurich Insurance Group, a multi‑line insurer with approximately 55,000 employees worldwide. We serve mid‑sized and large Canadian commercial companies for 100 years, with over 650 employees across Canada. Zurich Canada is a leading partner for risk management professionals, supporting resilience, and fostering a diverse, inclusive environment.

Apply Now

Click the “Apply” button above or submit your application through LinkedIn.

Zurich does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruitment agencies. If you are a preferred vendor, please use our Recruiting Agency Portal for resume submission.

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📌 Underwriting Specialist, Middle Market - Ottawa Region
🏢 Zurich Insurance
📍 Ottawa